Canon EOS Rebel T3i vs Nikon D5100

When you're browsing around looking for a upper-entry level DSLR with video capabilities, two models would usually catch your attention. The Canon Rebel T3i/EOS 600D and Nikon D5100 are definitely the forerunners of that division. These two cameras are well known for taking great photographs, and now even videos. Each brand has their own image quality but they do share a few things in common.

Created with Compare Ninja

What do they have in common?

The main feature of both cameras would be the 3”fully articulating LCD screen. (4:3 nikon, 3:2 canon display) The articulating LCD screen is a great feature for anyone shooting videos. It gives them a good view of the screen at high or low angles. These cameras weight practically the same, with the Canon T3i being slightly lighter than the Nikon D5100.

Canon Rebel T3i Review

The Canon has a few extra bells and whistles added from the previous models they released. The key feature it has compared to the T2i would be the articulating screen. For advanced photographers looking to print large portraits or images, they may appreciate the Canon T3i for the 18MP sensor which is larger than the 16MP on Nikon.

Buy NowCanon EOS Rebel T3i 18 MP CMOS DSLR CameraWith the T3i you also have a built in remote for flash on the camera. It uses a 9 point AF system. On live view, magnifying the image comes up with a sharper image version the Nikon. Another great thing on this camera is its interface. It's quite easy to navigate through the quick menu and it makes great use of the dial and arrows versus Nikon's L shaped menu. The edge of Canon comes mostly in its video functions.

Canon has full manual exposure control, where Nikon has limited “manual” exposure controls. Also, you can adjust the input of audio on the camera with several levels and even a decibel meter to see how loud the sound input is. The Nikon only has three levels for fine tuning sound. Also, the Canon has a 60fps at 720p setting which would be great for slow motion. Nikon only goes up to 30fps. The biggest trick on Canon's sleeve is by introducing the digital zoom feature. It maximizes the use of its sensor without sacrificing image quality.

Nikon D5100 Review

The Nikon D5100 on the other hand, is a great upgrade to its predecessors. Nikon had articulating screens before but it was bottom mounted. Having the screen side mounted, it becomes the first of its kind in Nikon's product line. Upon first inspection, it does look significantly look smaller than the Canon.

Buy NowNikon D5100 16.2MP CMOS DSLR CameraIn terms of comfort with regards to gripping the camera, the Nikon definitely has the edge. It does have a slightly smaller sensor at 16MP but that doesn't sacrifice image quality. It uses an 11 point AF system. For photographers, they will enjoy features like better continuous shooting. The colors a Nikon takes are more vivid but still stay loyal to actual colors of the scenery. On live view, though it sacrifices sharpness when magnifying, this has more steps to zoom in to over Canon having two steps at 5x and 10x. The great features on Nikon would be its interval timer shooting and HDR more.

For videos, Canon does have the edge but Nikon makes taking videos easier. It has video auto-focus, though jerky, it works. You can even apply effects to your video while you shoot, unlike Canon where you have to post-process.

The Verdict

Everyone will have their specific choice between either the T3i or the D5100. The Canon definitely leans more towards beginners with experience using a camera and the Nikon would appeal more to beginners or photographer who want to venture in to video DSLR's. Whichever of the two you choose, you'll have a top of the line DSLR for the foreseeable future.